How to Pronounce Perfect

To pronounce "perfect", say PERF-ect — 2 syllables, IPA /ˈpɜː.fɛkt/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

perfect

Tap to hear · American accent

Accent

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Speed

Syllable by syllable — tap each one

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Syllables

Letters

/ˈpɜː.fɛkt/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “perfect”

"perfect" has 2 syllables: perf-ect. It rhymes with aspect and depict, if that helps it stick.

What does perfect mean?

noun

(grammar) The perfect tense, or a form in that tense.
A perfect score; the achievement of finishing a stage or task with no mistakes.

adjective

Fitting its definition precisely.
“a perfect circle”
Having all of its parts in harmony with a common purpose.
“That bucket with the hole in the bottom is a poor bucket, but it is perfect for watering plants.”

Synonyms

mature bisexual hermaphroditic accurate flawless expert proficient faultless

Antonyms

imperfect flawed fallible faultful faulty

Hear “perfect” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with perfect

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

aspect depict subject conflict project derelict direct effect neglect affect reject defect

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "perfect"?▾

"Perfect" has 2 syllables: perf · ect.

What is the IPA transcription of "perfect"?▾

The IPA transcription of "perfect" is /ˈpɜː.fɛkt/.

What does "perfect" mean?▾

Perfect: (grammar) The perfect tense, or a form in that tense.

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